By: Eoghan Olkeriil Ngirudelsang

KOROR, Palau – The Palau Community Action Agency (PCAA) is celebrating its 58th anniversary this year. Established in 1967 following the enactment of the Economic Opportunity Act of 1964 by U.S. President Lyndon B. Johnson, PCAA has played a key role in community development through various programs.

Over the years, PCAA has administered initiatives such as the Civic Action Team apprenticeship program, which provided vocational training, and the Head Start program, which offers early childhood education. It has also facilitated youth summer employment programs, assisted citizens with loan applications, and compiled population censuses. Many of these services have since been privatized or transferred to government agencies.

One of PCAA’s most recognized programs is Head Start, which currently serves 276 children in Palau. At its peak, the program enrolled 509 students across multiple centers. However, due to outmigration and a declining birth rate, Head Start has consolidated some of its centers in recent years.

Last week, Head Start personnel and policymakers from the Marshall Islands and the Federated States of Micronesia visited Palau for a weeklong study tour. The delegation credited Palau’s long-standing success in managing the Head Start program. Discussions focused on governance, federal program requirements, and partnership opportunities.

PCAA remains committed to empowering vulnerable populations and encourages individuals to take advantage of its programs and services. As of last Monday, Darren Fritz has been appointed as the agency’s new executive director.